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More and more women are forgoing group or family travel in favor of solo trips. According to the Travel Channel, 32 million American women traveled alone in 2007. Although solo travel among women is on the rise, this is not justification for failing to take safety measures. It is still important for women to take extra precautions when traveling alone to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Step 1

Research your destination thoroughly. Access the Department of State's website and look for any travel advisories if you are traveling abroad. Research local customs as well to ensure you conform and stay mindful of religious customs and guidelines for dress. Learn a few key phrases in the country's native language if traveling abroad and check in at the local U.S. consulate or embassy once you reach your destination.

Step 2

Book a hotel that is well-known, busy and centrally located in a good neighborhood. Contact the local police station and ask for any data on crime statistics if traveling to a domestic destination. This information is also often available on the police department's website. Reach out to contacts in the region if possible and ask about the area you are considering. Use a travel ratings website and respected travel guide websites to review information about the hotel. Make sure to note the name of your hotel and neighboring landmarks upon arrival. Carry this information with you each time you leave the hotel.

Step 3

Make at least two copies of your travel documents. This includes your travel itinerary, including transportation and hotel information, as well as a copy of the first page of your passport if traveling abroad. Pack one copy of your documents in your luggage and scan your documents and store them in an email account you can access from your destination.

Step 4

Inform a friend or family member of the details of your trip. Give her the second set of copies of your travel documents, including your itinerary, hotel information and copy of the first page of you passport if you are traveling abroad. Call this person at least once a day during your trip to inform her of your plans and whereabouts.

Step 5

Pack only the items you can personally carry since you may not have anyone to assist you. Make sure you can easily lift and maneuver your luggage. Pack clothing you find comfortable, taking into account your planned activities. Pack appropriate shoes if you plan to do a lot of walking.

Step 6

Purchase a money belt that can be worn discreetly around your waist and under your clothes. Place your money and important documents in this pouch. Do not wear expensive jewelry or jewelry that appears expensive. Carry a cell phone and a small whistle to draw attention to yourself in an emergency situation.

Step 7

Do not share too much information about your trip with strangers. Do not tell strangers you are traveling alone and trust your intuition at all times. Try to limit your interactions with single men if possible. Sit next to women when using public transportation and request directions from women or a man in the presence of another woman or children. Do not travel alone at night if it is avoidable.

Step 8

Write down the taxi number or license plate number when catching a cab. Negotiate a fare before entering the cab and carry exact change if possible. Avoid traveling in a taxi alone at night if possible.

Step 9

Maintain a confident attitude when traveling to ward of those who may prey on weaker individuals. Walk as if you know where you are going at all times and speak with confidence when talking to others.

References

Resources

About the Author

Based in Atlanta, Renee Kristi has been writing since 2001 and her work now appears on various websites. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Spelman College and a Juris Doctor from Georgia State University College of Law.

Leaf Group is a USA TODAY content partner providing general travel information. Its content is produced independently of USA TODAY.

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